Paraguay and Morocco produced two of the biggest shocks of the FIFA World Cup 2026, knocking out former champions Germany and the Netherlands on penalties to book their places in the Round of 16.
Paraguay pulled off one of the tournament's biggest upsets by eliminating four-time champions Germany on penalties after a 1-1 draw in Monterrey.
Paraguay struck first before Germany fought back to force extra time, but the South Americans held their nerve to win the shootout 4-3.
The result marked Germany's first-ever FIFA World Cup penalty shootout defeat and another disappointing knockout-stage exit for the 2014 champions, who have not won a knockout match at the tournament since lifting the trophy in Brazil.
Fans celebrated across Asunción, with President Santiago Peña declaring a public holiday after the historic victory.
"I think Paraguay played the way we have been playing throughout the qualifiers, where we kept winning. Now, at the World Cup, we showed we have a lot of courage and the ability to beat the big teams," fan Alan Cáceres said.
Paraguay, whose best FIFA World Cup finish remains a quarter-final appearance in 2010, will now face either France or Sweden in the Round of 16.
In Germany, disappointed supporters questioned the team's performance, although many defended coach Julian Nagelsmann despite the early exit.
"I'm very sad. I could cry with rage," German fan Hussein said.
"But I'm still proud. We fought right until the end. Penalty shoot-outs are a thankless business."
Morocco also advanced after beating the Netherlands 3-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw. Ismael Saibari converted the decisive spot-kick after goalkeeper Yassine Bounou saved Crysencio Summerville's attempt, sending Morocco into the Round of 16.
Coach Mohamed Ouahbi said his team had earned global respect and were inspired by the millions watching back home.
"Morocco has gained everybody's respect now. We've shown it," Ouahbi told reporters after the match.
Morocco will now face co-hosts Canada in the next round.
Dutch coach Ronald Koeman defended his cautious tactical approach after the defeat, saying the system had been agreed with his players.
The victories send Paraguay and Morocco into the Round of 16, while Germany and the Netherlands head home after two of the tournament's biggest knockout-stage upsets.
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